As a Mumbaikar, we’re starved for weekend getaway experiences. I happened to read about river rafting in Kolad, a small village in Maharashtra, that is home to the Kundalika River, an important source of water for the villagers and hydroelectric plants around the region including the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). Every morning between 7am and 10:30am, the Rawalge dam water is released into the Kundalika River that creates strong rapids.
Kolad’s strategic location close to two major metropolitans – Mumbai and Pune gave birth to the idea of promoting Kolad river rafting for weekenders and adventure lovers.
Our visit to Kolad for river rafting
Our package operator was Daivya Adventures. When we reached our adventure camp in Kolad, we were asked to sign a disclaimer right away, acknowledging the risks involved in this sport. All geared, we headed to the starting point and were instructed on the dos and don’ts while in the river. The instructors are well trained, friendly and approachable. In unison our batch shouted ‘Kundalika Maiya ki Jai’ and off we went to play with the rapids.
Kundalika River promises Grade 3 rapids, ideal for newbie and professionals alike. Ten rapids with funny names like Johnny Walker and Mini Mouse are rough enough to give you an adrenaline rush.
Once you battle the rapids, you can jump into the river 30 feet deep. Thanks to the life jackets, you need not know swimming. Our instructor left us in the river by ourselves for over an hour while we relaxed and enjoyed some quiet moments with the utopian view, clearly one of the best I’ve seen in my travels on the outskirts of Mumbai. It was a serene experience – the only sounds one could hear were that of gushing water and chirping birds.
Four hours later, we reached Kamath, the end point of our river rafting experience. If you have a driver it is best to tell him to reach Kamath to pick you, from where you can move out of Kolad for Mumbai or your onward journey. If you park your car at the starting point without a driver, you will have to return back taking an auto rickshaw, 25km by road. Autos exploit the situation by charging Rs. 600 for the journey. Nonetheless, the auto can transport 6-7 people in one go, so if you split the expense it comes to around Rs. 100 per head.
How to reach Kolad?
Kolad is just 130 km from Mumbai (easy and comfortable one day trip). The distance is shorter for Punekars at just over 100km. Kolad is located in the Mahad region of the Raigad district. Take the Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH17) until Nagothane, and then take a turn for Kolad. Alternatively, one can also reach Kolad via the Khopoli exit. Once in Kolad, ask for Suttarwadi village. Keep MTDC as your landmark to take a left for Daivya Adventures (they were our package operators).
We drove down with our car. It’s the best way to reach Kolad. Compare car rental prices here.
Is Kolad possible in one day?
Yes, it is! We left from Mumbai at 7am and arrived just in time for the 11am river rafting batch. Due to some misunderstanding, we were given the 1pm batch which we did not mind. The rafting experience ended by 4pm and we headed back to the starting point to pick our car. We left Kolad by 5:30pm and were comfortable back in Mumbai by 11pm without it being a hectic trip.
How to book Kolad river rafting package?
I booked the Kolad river rafting package online from Viator, inclusive of lunch and complimentary rifle shooting and archery. The complimentary add-ons were a gimmick. It looked good on paper but in reality they give you 3 shots each of rifle shooting and archery which get done with in 5 minutes. Having said that, the River Rafting is the star of your package. It quickly makes you forget any drawbacks and turns your trip into a memorable one.
Where to stay in Kolad?
If you’re planning to stay in Kolad, Zostel Kolad is a great option for budget travelers. For a more private and comfortable stay, check out The Rudra Resort. If you’re a big group, best to take a villa, in which case SaffronStays Midori in Kolad will ensure your stay is comfortable since they are a popular chain of boutique stays.
Helpful and important tips for you:
- Kolad River Rafting is open throughout the year depending on the release of dam water every morning.
- Call a couple of agents for a good deal. I got my package for 1500 INR (prices may have revised – compare and choose)
- It is advised to book at least a day prior. We even chose the option of 50% advance payment. Don’t forget to carry a copy of the invoice.
- On booking, you are given the contact number of the river rafting operator with whom you can co-ordinate for route and directions. Trust me, you will need their help!
- Carry spare clothes. There are decent mobile shower rooms with changing facility.
- Each raft can accommodate eight people who are sent in batches of 3 and 4 at a single time. Depending upon the flow of the river, there are 3 batch timings – 8:30am, 11:30am and 1pm.
- You may be asked to wear comfortable closed shoes. Although, we went bare feet. Do the latter!
- Your cameras will be in a water protective bag during river rafting but you can use it later while lounging in the river.
- You can also add kayaking and river crossing to your package. We skipped these as it would result in too much exertion. Besides, these activities were at a different point in Kolad near the market area.
- Monsoons are the best time to visit for a scenic drive while the river brims with waters. Carry a good rain poncho and wear comfortable, non-slippery rainy shoes.
===
Liked this Post? Also check out…
===
Follow my travels
Join me on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with latest travel stories. Subscribe to this blog to receive travel updates in your inbox.
